Rhodesian Ridgeback

Description

Centuries ago, in South Africa, they found that the
Hottentots at the Cape were using Rhodesian Ridgeback type dogs for
hunting purposes and with its peculiar ridge of hair, running parallel
to the spine and in reverse to the rest of the coat, this
distinguished it from other breeds. During the nineteenth century big
game hunting flourished and hunters were quick to realise the value and
importance of good hunting dogs; it was only natural that they turned to
an indigenous breed, the Ridgeback. The origin of the breed is a bit
vague, but the view seems to be that it is the result of crossing the
Cuban Bloodhound with the Hottentot hunting dog. The latter supplying
the characteristic ridge. With the advent of long range rifles, hunters
dispensed with the use of dogs so the Rhodesian Ridgeback turned to its
other vocation that of guard dog, a duty which they perform equally
well.

Temperament

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is very affectionate,
has a delightful nature and is a faithful one man or family dog and his
friendship, once given, is for life. He loves nothing more than to lean
on you, lie on your feet or sit on your lap if permitted. He is placid,
easy going, extremely loyal and puts up with endless torment from
children. He does display a distinct offhandedness with strangers and
can be quite disinterested in anyone outside his chosen circle. Apart
from being highly intelligent and quick to learn he is more than happy
to fully participate in family activities, but at the same time is
equally content to laze around all day if there is nothing better to do.
The Ridgeback is an excellent guard dog and coupled with his deep bark
will warn intruders to keep away from his property.

Appearance

Height: 61-69cm
(24-27in)

Weight: 32-36.5kg
(70-75lb)

Group: Hounds

The Rhodesian Ridgeback should represent a well balanced,
strong, muscular, agile and active dog, symmetrical in outline and
capable of great endurance with a fair amount of speed. The emphasis is
on agility, elegance and soundness with no tendency towards massiveness.
The peculiarity of the breed is the ridge on the back, which is formed
by the hair growing in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat.

Grooming

Even though like most dogs the Rhodesian Ridgeback enjoys
getting brushed it will be something that can be done quite
infrequently. If they are inside the house, the occasional bath will be
appreciated, although as a short haired breed they are naturally a very
clean breed. As this is a fast growing dog it should not be overfed or
over exercised as a puppy, as this would put too much stress on their
developing bones.

Life Expectancy

10-12 Years

Health Concerns

This breed enjoys particularly good health especially if
purchased from a reputable breeder, where these breeders have ensured
that your puppy does not have a dermoid sinus (a thin tube usually found
along the midline of the dog and going down through the tissue toward
the spine which can become infected.). They will also have screened the
parents of your puppy for hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia - both only
rarely seen in the breed.

Suitability

Because of some of
their characteristic traits, the Ridgeback may not ideally suit everyone
as they are independent and stubborn if given
an order when it would prefer to be doing something else you will
probably not get instant results.If you want
the rewarding companionship of a dog that has spirit and considers
itself your equal rather than your slave, you need look no further. They
love a daily walk, prefer homes in which there is other canine company
and are extremely tolerant of children, however not so well suited to
older folk, who may have trouble handling a boisterous puppy. It is
also good to remember
that this breed is part of the hound fraternity and likes to chase.
Secure fencing and gates are highly recommended.